Columbia native Dean Young wrote the poem “Elegy on a Toy Piano,” a Pulitzer Prize finalist. If the poetry of life seems devoid of rhyme or reason, you can’t enjoy its verse. Your thoughts are senseless and disturbing. Your sadness and worry lead to hopelessness and self-pity.

Creating a better life seems like a lost cause. In fact, you can’t get through your current situations without making more problems for yourself. You don’t know how to order your thoughts or squelch your intense emotions. Talk to a counselor in the Columbia area to write a better life’s poem.

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Victoria Prisco, PLC

Offering therapy in PA
License: ATR,CAADC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Welcome to my Better Help profile. My name is Victoria Prisco and I am a licensed therapist and 6 Pillar Soul Coach. If you would like to learn more about me and my qualifications, please visit my website at www.levelupwellnesshub.com Through Better Help I am offering 30 minute text sessions.

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sean Erno

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania with over 10 years of experience working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including major life changes, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Co-occurring Substance Use and Behavioral Health Disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and disorders involving psychosis. My counseling style is empathic and conversational. I believe respect, sensitivity and compassion are vital components to the therapeutic process. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, narrative and researched, evidence based strategies to help you find solutions to the challenges you face. I will tailor our strategies and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Together, we can find ways to harness and build upon your strengths and overcome the challenges in your life. I look forward to working with you!

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Victoria Geter

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health providing clinical counseling to adults and adolescents. My clinical career includes treating and supporting clients with a wide range of concerns such as, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, substance abuse, personality disorders, mood dysregulation, trauma, grief & loss and more. My counseling style is supportive, but yet direct. While I do treat everyone with respect, empathy and compassion, you cannot change what you are not willing to own. This process is most often difficult, uncomfortable and frustrating. And so, self reflection, openness and building trust with one’s self is imperative in order to face things in your life that you say you want or need to change. My most common modality of intervention is cognitive-behavioral retraining as one’s perception is everything. Often, the way we phrase things feed our subconscious the opposite of what we really want/need/desire or, the lenses in which we see/understand a situation is distorted and so, we need to reframe the picture. In addition, I am skilled at person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing, Trauma-focused CBT, EMDR (I’m very selective w/ this via Telehealth) and more. I provide sessions via telephone or video on a weekly basis. Sporadic, random or biweekly sessions are not an option when working with me until after you have done the work and reached your goal. If you are unable to commit to this then I am not the clinician for you. But, if you’re ready to confront things in your life or, you’re seeking relief from depression, anxiety and or more - I’m your person! I look forward to supporting you on making changes in your life or just even facing some perhaps painful or frustrating things. Remember, the therapeutic relationship is a partnership that grows out of facing difficulties together. What is most important is that you learn to trust yourself during the journey. I look forward to supporting you.

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Suzy Gold

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC,ATR-BC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

Hello, I am a competent and compassionate psychotherapist who holds ATR-BC (Board Certified Registered Art Therapist) and LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) credentials with extensive clinical experience since 2014 with children, adolescents, adults, and families at home, school, community settings, inpatient psychiatric hospital, outpatient community mental health center, and juvenile detention center. My therapy training and experience include followings; Creative art therapy, Behavioral therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational interviewing, Person-centered psychotherapy, Trauma focused therapy, Dialectical behavioral therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Narrative therapy, Emotion-focused therapy, Mindfulness-based therapy, Christian faith-based therapy & Brief psychotherapy.

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Rachael Morgan

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania and also hold the national certified counselor (NCC) credential. I earned an MA in Community Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and have 15+ years of experience working with a wide range of people providing individual, couples, group, and skills training sessions. I have worked with many different mental health issues, such as depression, self-injury, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ issues, and adjustment to life changes. I also have experience working with dually diagnosed individuals and those coping with substance use issues. I work from a client-centered, judgment free approach combining aspects of DBT, CBT, Personal Medicine, and Mindfulness. I am willing to meet a person where they are at in their journey. I am a guide on your journey. I do not have all the answers, but am willing to work with you to build a life worth living. I do not believe in labeling people as we are all just humans at the end of the day. I empower my clients to make safe, healthy, and effective decisions to better their lives. I use positivity and skills training to help people improve their self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall outlook on life. I use a conversational style to work on the issues that are important to you. Change can be scary, but I believe that by taking small steps everyone has the ability within themselves to change for the better. You have already taken the first step by considering therapy. I would love to work with you toward your goals and help you to see the world from a different perspective. Change your thinking, and you will change your world. I look forward to walking the path toward a happier and healthier life with you.

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Katricia Vouga

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello, and welcome to my BetterHelp profile! My name is Kat; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of helping people get their lives on track. Any journey towards self-improvement can feel overwhelming, but partnering with a therapist is a great place to start. Together, I hope that we can create goals and develop positive coping strategies to move you in the right direction. I am available for sessions through our video, phone, and live chat platforms. Feel free to send me a message with any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment!

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James Perrotti

Offering therapy in PA
GriefSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Tamika Montague

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I hold a Trauma Certificate from Drexel University Behavioral Healthcare Education and am a Certified Trauma Competent Professional through Lakeside Global Institute. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools & Bounceback (CBITS). In 2019, I achieved the certification through IATP of a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Michelle Coleman

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Rebekah Coval

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Columbia

Finding the best therapist close by in Columbia can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Columbia. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Columbia, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Columbia or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Columbia area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Columbia, elsewhere in Lancaster, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Columbia area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Columbia therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Columbia due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Columbia may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Pennsylvania you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Columbia, Pennsylvania working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Columbia above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Columbia helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Columbia therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Columbia therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Columbia therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in PA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 17512 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Columbia counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Columbia licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Columbia, Pennsylvania can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Columbia has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Columbia.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Columbia:

17512

Popular cities near Columbia, PA

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